Luxury Escape in Montenegro [MEA048SO]

Introduction

Looking to avoid the cold and grey? Want to enjoy an early spring? This 8-day, adventure itinerary will allow you to enjoy the best of Montenegrowithout thecrowds or traffic. A perfect mix of bayside mountain trails, UNESCO Heritage sites and Old World charm topped off with lashings of Montenegrin gastronomic delights. Experience a way of life that is century’s old while enjoying a more modern level of comfort. You will enjoy local organic foods, visit forgotten places while enjoying a pleasant and sunny climate most of the time throughout the year! Whether you’re with your family, a group of friends or your significant other, this trip is guaranteed to be a once in a lifetime journey!

DAY 1– Herceg Novi, gateway to Montenegro

Transfer to your accommodation within a stone’s throw from the beautiful waters of the Gulf of Kotor. Spend the day exploring by foot the sites of this remarkable town: the Savina Monastery surrounded by thick Mediterranean vegetation, is one of the most beautiful parts of the northern Montenegrin coast. Don’t miss the charming Bellavista square in the old town, with the church of St Michael and Korača fountain, one of the last remaining examples of Turkish rule. Stroll along Njegoševa Street with 19th century villa’s on one side and sweeping views of the bay on the other. Keep following around the bay to you come to Vila “Galeb” One-time residence of the founder of Yugoslavia – Josip Broz Tito. Today it’s a 70’s time capsule.

Accommodation – 4 * Guest House in Herceg Novi

DAY 2 – Ostrog Monastery and goat farm

Head to central part of the country to discover the famous Ostrog Monastry. Visit the small cave chapel, admire the frescos in the upper level chamber and marvel at the views from this perfect vantage point high above the valley. An imposing natural barrier that kept its relics safe through years of Ottoman occupation.

In return we will treat you with lunch at organic goat farm where you can enjoy real warmth of Montenegrin hospitality.

Accommodation – 4 * Guest House in Herceg Novi

DAY 3 – Best of Boka Bay

Leaving Herceg Novi, drive towards tonight’s accommodation in the old walled Venetian town of Kotor. Along the way, stop in Risan famous for its rich archaeological findings dating from Illyrian times and Queen Teuta, and also well preserved Roman mosaics form 4th century BC.

Option 1: Hike up and along the ridge above Boka Bay with our certified mountain guide. The hike starts from the village of Orahovac with a gradual climb on an old Austro-Hungarian road dating from 1880. We pass through a number of abandoned villages with amazing views of Boka Bay, past an old Austrian fortress superbly placed before finishing in Perast. This is a moderate to hard hike for people of all ages, including families. The hike takes approximately 5-6 hours, with regular stops for photographs & breaks.

Option 2: Visit one of the most beautiful bay-side towns on the coast – Perast and the remarkable old town of Kotor for a personalised walking tour with your guide. Perast’s beautiful palaces echo songs of the sea, stories of captains, past and old noble families. Enjoy the architecture and one of the best views of the Bay and islands.

Take a short boat cruise toOur Lady of the Rock island with its distinctive baroque church and museum. Listen to the story of this amazing island, enjoy the 17th century frescos and other works of art from famous local artists. Established by Benedictine monks, the Abbey dates from around the 9th century and has suffered from constant attacks both by invaders and earthquakes.

In Kotor, our licensed guide will lead you through the Sea Gate and the winding cobble stone streets to hear the secrets of the Square of Weapons. Learn about medieval Kotor craftsmanship, St Tryphon’s tragic story, as well as power of prayers of the Blessed Mary of the River.

Accommodation – 4 * Hotel or Appart’Hôtel in Kotor old town

DAY 4 – Old Town Kotor

Today you can climb up to the top of the St. John’s the outcrop that backs the city. Follow the stairs to the top past the old ramparts, the Church of Our Lady of Remedy from 1518 or take the more difficult route along the Southern Wall. On top of the mountain is the San Giovanni castle – which dominates the bay, the fortification system and the town.

Option 3: Hike the Vrmac ridge to the Austrian Fort and on to the picturesque village of Gornja Lastva with a mountain guide.

Accommodation – 4 * Hotel or Appart’Hôtel in Kotor old town

DAY 5 – Mountains and Lakes

Discover old Cetinje Monastery with our certified local guide, the symbol of freedom in the centuries’ long fight of Montenegrins; learn the story of the Billiard House, marvel at former foreign embassies, from the time Montenegro was a kingdom. The highlight of the tour is a look inside King Nikola’s palace, seat of the Petrovic royal family, a dynasty that ruled Montenegro for over 200 years.

Then we will take you to see the honey making techniques and traditions of our hosts and taste some homemade liqueurs followed by traditional Montenegrin lunch.

Head to the largest lake in the Balkans, Skadar Lake. With over 40 species of fish and 270 species of birds (Some rare such as the Dalmatian pelican, grebe and woodcock) inhabiting the lake, this a very picturesque and unique ecosystem.

Accommodation: Luxury Home Stay near Skadar lake

DAY 6 – Explore the Interior

After a hearty breakfast, head out on an exclusive boat tour of the lake for a private ride. Passing between “Goat and Sheep Islands”, we will reach Beška Monastery, the only sacred place in the Lake area that originates from the 15th century. Enjoy beautiful views of the Lake landscape, visit tombs of the Crnojevic dynasty rulers and the dreaded island of Grmozur our “Montenegrin Alcatraz”. There is a story that only one prisoner ever managed to escape the confines of the island, today you will find remains of the old prison reborn as haven for birds.

Afternoon free to explore the surroundings and visit one of the many small fishing villages on the lake shore.

Accommodation: Luxury Home Stay near Skadar lake

DAY 7 – Vineyards and Gastronomic delights

Today you will go on a gastronomic adventure to sample the best food and wine of the region. You will visit 2 local wineries’, sampling some of the region’s best wines and organic home produce. Included is an exclusive visit to an award-winning winery that is closed to the public. You will be the exclusive guests of this elegant estate, learn about organic wine making from your amazing host and listen to his story of family tradition of 27 generations. We’ll take you for lunch at the Montenegrin Niagara Falls, where you’ll enjoy traditional food in a unique setting. You will be able to take a visit to a medieval fortress located on the hill overlooking Skadar Lake, one of the best photography backdrops in the country.

Accommodation: 4 * Hotel in Kolasin or Podgorica

DAY 8 – Departure

Breakfast before saying our goodbyes – Heading back to the airport.

For those with late departures, we can offer a walking tour (option 4: with a guide) of the capital or a visit to the fresh produce markets.

Want a longer holiday? Add a few more days to your holidays to go skiing at Kolasin (weather dependent). Located 15-min drive from Kolasin, 1450 ski centre offers beginner and intermediate level skiing. Experienced snowboarders and skiers can also venture off-piste to get their kicks by heading to the top of the button lift and hiking 100m up the mountain face to access a series of steep valleys that eventually reconnect with the main run.

Information

All activities exclusive with the exception of the mini-boat cruise in Perast.

Price per person, based on twin share / double bed accommodations:

For 6 people – €730

For 4 people – €730

For 2 people – €880

Options tariff on request. Prices above for off-season (November to April) or early booking in high-season.